Uni rides with 'Simpsons'

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"The Simpsons," Fox's long-running TV series that will spin off a big-screen version in the summer, is morphing into a theme park ride as well.

Universal Studios said Tuesday that it will open rides based on the Fox series at its Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood in spring 2008.

The rides will incorporate the characters of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson along with other characters from the series in an attraction that will combine elements of a thrill ride, so-called "dark" ride and live show that will be presented as part of a fantasy amusement park created by the series' Krusty the Clown.

Universal's creative team is collaborating with "Simpsons" creator and executive producer Matt Groening and exec producer James L. Brooks. It will be voiced by the series' original actors.

"The ride is designed to duplicate the 'Simpsons' home-viewing experience, only at high speed and with lots of screaming," Groening said.

A Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television, the series, in its 18th season, will air its 400th episode on May 20. 20th Century Fox will release "The Simpsons Movie" on July 27.

The property was licensed to Universal by 20th Century Fox Licensing and Merchandising.